Tackling drills for kids should focus on safe methods above all else. Using good technique not only keeps the defender's head and neck safe, but also prevents injuring the opponent being tackled. The first step towards consistent tackling is to get yourself into a position with good leverage. To do so, squat down while keeping your back straight and head up so you can see exactly where you'll hit your opponent.

Now that you're in position, straighten your knees and propel your body forward. It's important to sink your hips while paying attention to the target's hips, as this will always tell you where they're headed. Ultimately, the goal is to make contact with the opponent's hips, wrap your arms around their torso, squeeze, and bring them down. The right positioning, forward momentum, and force of impact work together to finish the tackle. At all cost, do not strike with your head as this is the easiest way to hurt an opponent, yourself, or even sustain a concussion.

Once you've nailed the proper stance and technique, then you can start using drills and put it to practice. As a warmup, have players practice their form and stop at the point of contact. You can also practice the hug and hold technique in order to teach the consistent wrapping of the opposition without dangerous force behind it. This time, don't stop at the point of contact, but don't drive through your partner either -- just stop once you've fully controlled his or her movement. At the end of the day, we must stress, no matter what drill you're running, don't lead with your head as those short-term benefits are never worth the potential health injuries!

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CoachUp.com

CoachUp connects athletes with private coaches to help them reach another level in sports and life. As the nation's leading private coaching company, CoachUp has over 13,000 coaches across the country in many sports, from basketball and soccer to fitness and dance. CoachUp's mission is to help kids change the trajectory of their lives through sports. For more information or to book a session, visit CoachUp.com.

CoachUp connects athletes with private coaches to help them reach another level in sports and life. As the nation's leading private coaching company, CoachUp has over 13,000 coaches across the country in many sports, from basketball and soccer to fitness and dance. CoachUp's mission is to help kids change the trajectory of their lives through sports. For more information or to book a session, visit CoachUp.com.

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